Getting to know: Pastor helps congregation find place in ministry

June 18, 2009

Walter Huber serves as pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church. He was worked at several churches over his 37 years in the ministry.

What is your philosophy of leadership in the church? I believe that the church is the body of Christ and the body of Christ is made up of many members. In fact, the Bible says it has many members. And I think my job is to lead each person in finding their function.

Every Christian has a ministry; every member of the church has a ministry. They just have different functions. That’s one of the reasons we’re here.

Another reason is in our Bible study, we try to lead them not just to know the Bible but to apply it in their daily lives. That’s the key to Christian living.

What is your vision for the future of this church? Of course, it always is growth, but the vision is in growth to build the Kingdom of God. That should be our No. 1 priority. Not everybody we lead to the Lord is going to become a member here, but everyone who comes to the Lord is a member of the Kingdom of God.

The Bible says we should equip the saints for ministry. It’s all about ministry.

What is the best thing about this church? I think our togetherness. We are a family. There’s a closeness here we don’t find every place. We care for each other, and we care for our community.

What is your favorite Bible verse? “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). We can’t do anything without him, at least nothing that’s lasting.

What was your favorite toy as a child? It was a football. I was raised in Artesia. I loved football. I still do.

If you could meet one fictional character who came alive, who would it be? I would probably like to meet Forrest Gump. In that movie, he was so open and honest.

What is your favorite food and why? Steak and potatoes. They taste better than any other food.

If you could have three wishes, what would they be? True peace on Earth, genuine love in each and every person’s heart and no hungry children or adults in the world.

Is there anything else you’d like to say? I’m thankful for the pastors in Portales, their fellowship and concern for this community. We have a good group of pastors.